United Airlines updates emotional support animal policy

(WKOW) -- After a passenger tried to bring a peacock on board a United flight last month, claiming it was an emotional support animal, the airline has updated its policy on flying with emotional support animals. Reps with United say they've seen a significant increase in these animals on flights and problems with them.

Starting March 1, passengers with emotional support animals must provide the following:- Confirmation the animal has been properly trained- Affirmation from a veterinarian the animal has been vaccinated and won't threaten the health, safety or service of anyone else flying- 48 hours notice the animal will be coming on board- A letter from a mental health professional

United Airlines released a statement saying, "The Department of Transportation’s rules regarding emotional support animals are not working as they were intended to, prompting us to change our approach in order to ensure a safe and pleasant travel experience for all of our customers."

On the peacock incident, the airline added, "This animal did not meet guidelines for a number of reasons, including its weight and size. We explained this to the customers on three separate occasions before they arrived at the airport."

Delta recently updated its policy requiring a signed document that the emotional support animal can behave. American also is reviewing its emotional support animal policy.

Nine welfare reform bills from Governor Scott Walker’s agenda head to his desk after Senate Republicans voted to take final action. All votes came down on party lines with no Democrats voting in favor.

Nine welfare reform bills from Governor Scott Walker’s agenda head to his desk after Senate Republicans voted to take final action. All votes came down on party lines with no Democrats voting in favor.